Let's Move Cities and Towns

Posted by Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of Health and Human Services on June 11, 2010

Earlier this year, when the First Lady announced the initiative to eliminate childhood obesity within a generation, we were aware that it was an ambitious goal. At the White House kickoff, she said, "This isn't the kind of problem that can be solved overnight, but with everyone working together, it can be solved."

Today, I was in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma seeking to build on that coalition. Speaking at the U.S. Conference of Mayors annual meeting, I challenged nearly 400 mayors present to join our new Let's Move Cities and Towns initiative.

Let's Move Cities and Towns emphasizes the unique ability of communities to address the problem of childhood obesity locally. Mayors and elected officials can provide critical leadership to bring communities together and spur action. We encourage prospective cities and towns to support and take action on the four pillars of the Let's Move! initiative:
1. Help Parents Make Healthy Family Choices
2. Create Healthy Schools
3. Provide Access to Healthy and Affordable Food
4. Promote Physical Activity

While in Oklahoma, I also joined local children, public officials, and former Olympic athletes Dominique Dawes and Bart Conner to observe Oklahoma City's "Olympic Day." As we celebrated the birth of the modern Olympic Games, we encouraged kids to get moving with all different types of sports and activities - kayaking, rowing, running, and gymnastics.

This summer, get outdoors, get active, and get moving in your local community!